Marshmallow Root

Botanical Name:

Althaea officinalis

Marshmallow root is known by many other names- Althaea root, sweet-weed, Mallards, guimauve, mortification plant, schloss tea and wymote. The name Alhaea is derived from Greek word which means to cure. Marshmallow root has healing power and has been used from a long time ago. The roots are perennial, tapering and thick. They are tough and the color is whitish yellow outside where as fibrous white inside. Marshmallow is traditionally used to cure irritation of mucous membranes. Also it is used as a gargle for mouth and throat ulcers, and gastric ulcers. Since the middle ages, the root has been used as a treatment of sore throat.

In the middle-east countries, the root extract is often used as flavoring in the preparation of a snack called Halva. The flowers and new leaves on the other hand can be eaten as salads or can be fried.